GPS satellite. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

[Via Satellite 02-04-2014] Exelis has completed software upgrades for the new Global Positioning System Next Generation Operational Control System (GPS OCX). This new version of GPS software will help ground controllers to better understand satellite positioning in space. The encryption software is designed to automatically code and decode GPS signals, enabling the exchange of user information by securely transmitting data between the OCX ground system and the orbiting satellites.

The Mission Upload Generator (MUG) software will create spacecraft payload updates to refresh the navigation data transmitted to GPS users. This data is generated for each satellite and helps minimize user error.

“These software milestones demonstrate a clear path to improved GPS accuracy and integrity,” said Drew Trainor, OCX program manager for Exelis Geospatial Systems. “Civilian and military users will have more accurate and secure GPS signals, and these milestones bring us one step closer to GPS modernization.”